Gay Actresses Everyone Loves

The entertainment industry has evolved significantly over the last few decades to become more inclusive and representative of diverse identities. Many talented actresses have chosen to live openly and authentically while building successful careers in film and television. Their visibility helps foster acceptance and provides role models for audiences around the world. These performers have garnered widespread admiration not only for their acting abilities but also for their courage and advocacy. This list highlights forty-five prominent women who have captivated viewers with their work and remain beloved figures in Hollywood.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has been a commanding presence in Hollywood since her childhood and has won multiple Academy Awards. She delivered unforgettable performances in films such as ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. Her transition from child star to serious dramatic actress and director cemented her status as an industry veteran. Foster publicly acknowledged her sexuality during a Golden Globes speech that was praised for its dignity and privacy. She continues to take on complex roles that challenge her range as a performer.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career spans decades of television, film, and theater. She gained a massive new following starring alongside Jane Fonda in the hit Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Her comedic style often blends sharp wit with deep empathy for her characters. Tomlin married her longtime partner Jane Wagner after decades of collaboration and life together. She remains one of the most respected and enduring figures in American entertainment.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has become a household name largely due to her versatile roles in Ryan Murphy productions. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Her relationship with fellow actress Holland Taylor has been embraced by fans for its sincerity and longevity. Paulson consistently chooses intense and psychological roles that showcase her dramatic depth. She is widely regarded as one of the most talented character actresses working today.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart skyrocketed to international fame as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ saga before pivoting to independent cinema. She became the first American actress to win a Cesar Award for her supporting role in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart openly discusses her fluidity and has become a fashion and cultural icon for the LGBTQ+ community. Her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination. She continues to push boundaries with her bold choices in film projects.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon served as a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she created numerous iconic characters. Her comedic brilliance led to major film roles in movies such as ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’. She made history as the first openly lesbian cast member on SNL and won two Emmy Awards for her work. McKinnon is beloved for her ability to fully transform into eccentric personalities. Her timing and physical comedy have set a high bar for sketch performers.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her portrayal of the ambitious lawyer Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. She has seamlessly transitioned between acting and political activism in New York City. Nixon has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and public education reform. She reprised her famous role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That…’ which explored new dimensions of her character. Her career includes impressive work on Broadway as well as in television and film.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch became a comedic superstar through her role as the ruthlessly competitive Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has a distinct improvisational style that she honed in Christopher Guest mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’. Lynch has hosted popular game shows and lends her voice to various animated projects. She brings a commanding energy to every scene she inhabits on screen. Her visibility as a gay woman in comedy has paved the way for many others.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her sharp wit and distinctive voice. She has appeared in numerous sitcoms and currently stars in ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix. Sykes was named one of the funniest people in America and has hosted major awards shows. She came out publicly at a rally for same-sex marriage rights in 2008. Her comedy often tackles social issues with humor and blunt honesty.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a celebrated playwright and actress with a career that includes roles in ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of a judge in ‘The Practice’. Taylor garnered fresh acclaim recently for her role in the miniseries ‘Hollywood’. Her relationship with Sarah Paulson is often highlighted in the media for their supportive dynamic. She brings elegance and authority to every role she undertakes.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi gained fame for her role as Nelle Porter on ‘Ally McBeal’ and later as Lindsay Bluth Fünke on ‘Arrested Development’. She is known for her impeccable comedic timing and ability to play somewhat vapid but lovable characters. De Rossi has been married to comedian Ellen DeGeneres since 2008 and they are a prominent power couple. She eventually stepped back from acting to focus on business and philanthropy. Her work in sitcoms remains a highlight of early 2000s television.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley captured hearts as Poussey Washington in the groundbreaking series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later won an Emmy Award for her performance as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley married one of the writers from ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and they have become a beloved couple in the industry. Her performances are often marked by deep emotional resonance and strength. She continues to be a strong advocate for visibility in Hollywood.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné has been on television screens since she was a toddler on ‘The Cosby Show’. She became a Disney Channel icon with her hit series ‘That’s So Raven’ and later returned for the spinoff ‘Raven’s Home’. She came out in a tweet regarding marriage equality and has since lived openly with her wife. Raven remains a significant figure for millennials who grew up watching her navigate adolescence. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her adaptability and talent.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall became a cult icon in the 90s with roles in ‘The Faculty’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She has since transitioned into writing and directing with the holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’. DuVall often plays dry or sarcastic characters that resonate with queer audiences. She has maintained a steady presence in both television and film for over two decades. Her work behind the camera is now helping to tell more diverse LGBTQ+ stories.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is famous for her deadpan comedy style which she perfected as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has openly identified as bisexual and brings a chaotic energy to her interviews and roles. Plaza earned critical acclaim for her dramatic turn in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’. She constantly surprises audiences with her choice of unconventional and edgy projects. Her unique persona has cultivated a dedicated fanbase.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing the tough detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character also came out as bisexual on the show which mirrored Beatriz’s real-life identity. She displayed her incredible vocal range as the lead in Disney’s animated hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz is a vocal advocate for bisexual representation in media. She brings both intensity and warmth to her diverse array of roles.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress and evolved into a powerful dramatic lead. She received massive acclaim for her complex role as Dolores Abernathy in the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’. Wood identifies as bisexual and has been a fierce activist for domestic violence survivors. Her performances are often characterized by a raw and emotional intensity. She continues to choose challenging roles that push the boundaries of storytelling.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major star with roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the ‘Creed’ franchise. She plays Valkyrie in the ‘Thor’ films and made the character the first explicitly LGBTQ+ superhero on screen. Thompson identifies as bisexual and speaks frequently about the importance of fluid representation. Her career balances massive blockbusters with smaller independent films like ‘Sylvie’s Love’. She commands the screen with a natural charisma and strength.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award at age eleven for her role in ‘The Piano’. She later starred as Sookie Stackhouse in the popular vampire series ‘True Blood’. Paquin came out as bisexual in a public service announcement and has defended that identity throughout her marriage to Stephen Moyer. She consistently takes on gritty and demanding roles in television and film. Her talent and early success established her as a formidable actress.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore is a Hollywood royalty who overcame a turbulent childhood to become a beloved actress and talk show host. She has starred in classic films such as ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ and ‘Charlie’s Angels’. Barrymore has spoken openly about her bisexual identity and her relationships with women in the past. Her infectious positivity has made her daytime talk show a massive hit. She remains one of the most relatable and enduring figures in the entertainment business.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is an Academy Award-winning actress and director known for ‘Girl, Interrupted’ and ‘Maleficent’. She has been open about her bisexuality since the early days of her career. Jolie is also a dedicated humanitarian who travels the world to advocate for refugees. Her presence on screen is often described as magnetic and powerful. She balances her high-profile film career with extensive charity work.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne transitioned from a supermodel to a successful actress with roles in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. She identifies as pansexual and is known for her candidness regarding her relationships and sexuality. Delevingne starred in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ alongside Orlando Bloom. She brings a unique edge and vulnerability to her characters. Her openness has made her a role model for younger generations.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an Academy Award for acting. She won the Oscar for her dynamic performance as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. DeBose is a triple threat with a strong background in Broadway theater. She continues to book high-profile roles in films like ‘Wish’ and ‘Argylle’. Her energy and talent have quickly propelled her to the top of the industry.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell was a ubiquitous presence in the 90s as a talk show host and actress in films like ‘A League of Their Own’. She was one of the first major daytime personalities to come out as a lesbian. O’Donnell has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ families and adoption rights. She recently appeared in the series ‘Russian Doll’ and ‘American Gigolo’. Her contributions to daytime television and visibility are historically significant.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly respected stage and screen actress known for her role as Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. She gained a new legion of fans playing the head of the Russian desk in ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is married to economist Sonali Deraniyagala and lives openly. Her performances are often marked by a sharp intelligence and commanding authority. She is a master of both classical theater and modern television drama.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a British character actress known for her role as Professor Sprout in ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’. She is famous for her unfiltered storytelling on talk shows and her eccentric personality. Margolyes has been with her partner Heather Sutherland for over fifty years. She brings delight and humor to every project she joins. Her memoir solidified her reputation as a candid and hilarious public figure.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a titan of the theater world who has also made a significant mark on television. She won an Emmy for her role as the President in ’24’ and appeared in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to thank her wife during an acceptance speech. She brings a grounded gravitas and warmth to her characters. Her career is a testament to the power of authenticity in acting.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert is best known for her role as Darlene Conner on the sitcom ‘Roseanne’ and its spinoff ‘The Conners’. She also created and co-hosted the daytime talk show ‘The Talk’. Gilbert came out publicly while dating songwriter Linda Perry and has been an advocate for living authentically. She brings a dry wit and relatable cynicism to her iconic television roles. Her work behind the scenes has also been highly successful.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and observational humor. She starred in her own series ‘One Mississippi’ and had a role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Notaro famously performed a stand-up set moments after being diagnosed with cancer. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne and they often work together. Her resilience and unique comedic voice have earned her a loyal following.

Leisha Hailey

Leisha Hailey starred alongside Katherine Moennig in ‘The L Word’ as the quirky character Alice Pieszecki. She is also a musician who performs with the band Uh Huh Her. Hailey brings a bright energy and comedic timing to her acting roles. She returned for the reboot of the show that made her famous. Her ongoing friendship with her castmates delights fans of the original series.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has starred in acclaimed films such as ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘The Cooler’. She wrote a book titled ‘Whatever… Love Is Love’ exploring her fluid sexuality. Bello starred as Jack Sloane in the hit procedural ‘NCIS’ for several seasons. She advocates for a label-free approach to love and relationships. Her performances are consistently grounded and compelling.

Rebel Wilson

Rebel Wilson is a comedic powerhouse known for her role as Fat Amy in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ trilogy. She recently came out and announced her engagement to designer Ramona Agruma. Wilson has showcased her dramatic acting chops in films like ‘The Almond and the Seahorse’. She wrote a memoir detailing her journey in Hollywood and personal life. Her ability to improvise and steal scenes makes her a favorite among audiences.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has been performing since childhood and gained fame for ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She starred in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ and has received acclaim for her charisma and range. Palmer has expressed that she does not subscribe to labels regarding her sexuality. She is a multi-talented entertainer who hosts, sings, and acts with equal skill. Her vibrant personality shines through in all her work.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons is a rising star known for her breakout role in the film ‘Dope’. She identifies as queer and has been open about her identity in interviews. Clemons has appeared in blockbusters like ‘The Flash’ and indie hits like ‘Hearts Beat Loud’. She brings a natural charm and coolness to the screen. Her career continues to ascend with diverse roles in film and television.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an instant internet sensation as Barb in the first season of ‘Stranger Things’. She earned an Emmy nomination for the brief but memorable role. Purser came out as bisexual on Twitter during a discussion with fans. She has since starred in the teen comedy ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’. Her relatable presence has made her a voice for young audiences.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the cult classic ‘Arrested Development’. She starred in the mystery comedy series ‘Search Party’ which garnered critical praise. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and is also a talented visual artist. She often chooses offbeat and artistic projects that showcase her range. Her unique look and acting style distinguish her in the industry.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a global sex symbol after starring in the ‘Transformers’ franchise. She has been open about her bisexuality for many years. Fox garnered a cult following for her role in the horror comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’. She continues to act in action films and thrillers. Her candidness about her experiences in Hollywood has earned her renewed respect.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows is a tall and striking actress known for her roles in ‘Deep Blue Sea’ and ‘Troy’. She played a cellist in the Amazon series ‘Mozart in the Jungle’. Burrows has openly discussed her relationships with both women and men. She starred as Love Quinn’s mother in the Netflix thriller ‘You’. Her elegance and intensity make her a captivating performer.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo gained fame for her role as the awkward Dawn Wiener in ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She is also well known for playing the best friend in ‘The Princess Diaries’. Matarazzo has been out as a lesbian for most of her career. She continues to act in independent films and television guest spots. Her early work remains influential in the coming-of-age genre.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot-Marie Jones is an athlete and actress best known for playing Coach Beiste on ‘Glee’. She received three Emmy nominations for her touching performance on the show. Jones has been married to her wife Bridgett Casteen since 2013. She often plays tough but tender characters. Her presence brings a unique physicality and heart to her roles.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is a comedian, singer, and actress known for her acerbic wit. She played Nancy Bartlett on ‘Roseanne’, one of the first recurring lesbian characters on a sitcom. Bernhard recently appeared in ‘Pose’ as a nurse fighting the AIDS crisis. She has been a fixture in the New York entertainment scene for decades. Her unapologetic style paved the way for many modern comics.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international attention for her role as Stella Carlin in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She identifies as gender fluid but has played many female roles including Batwoman. Rose began her career as a presenter on MTV Australia. She often takes on action-heavy roles that utilize her physical fitness. Her distinct look and tattoos have made her a style icon.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her role as Tara Thornton in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. She recently starred as Maria Miller in the hit HBO series ‘The Last of Us’. Wesley announced her engagement to a woman on Instagram, sharing her happiness with fans. She brings a fierce emotional intensity to her dramatic work. Her performance in ‘Queen Sugar’ was also highly praised by critics.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox broke barriers as Sophia Burset on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox is a tireless advocate for trans rights and visibility in media. She continues to act in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and various television series. Her impact on the industry has been transformative and lasting.

Please share your favorite performances by these actresses in the comments.